Choosing a new roof can feel overwhelming, especially with so many shingle types to pick from. This guide breaks down the most common options to help you choose the right roofing shingles for your home.
There are many different types of roof shingles, each with unique features, benefits, and drawbacks. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a multi-family property manager planning a replacement, knowing your options is key. This article walks through the most popular roofing shingles, their materials, pros and cons, and which are best suited for homes in Minnesota’s challenging climate.
Choosing the right shingles for your home can be difficult. Work with the professionals at Minnesota Exteriors for guidance on your residential roofing project.
What are Roof Shingles?
Roof shingles are the outermost layer of your roof that protects your home from the elements. Installed in overlapping rows, shingles act as a water-shedding system to prevent leaks, manage snowmelt, and improve overall insulation. Beyond functionality, shingles also play a significant role in the curb appeal of your home or property.
What are Shingles Made of?
You may still be wondering, what are roof shingles made of? Shingles can be made from a variety of materials, each offering different benefits and appearances. Common materials include asphalt, wood, metal, clay, and slate. Each material affects the roof’s durability, cost, appearance, and climate suitability.
Types of Roof Shingles
There are many different types of roofing shingles available, each designed for specific needs, styles, and climates. Here are some of the most common types of shingles for homeowners and multi-family property owners:
- Asphalt shingles
- Metal roofing
- Wood shingles
- Tile roofing
Asphalt Roof Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing material, especially in colder climates like Minnesota. These shingles are made from a fiberglass base coated with asphalt and granules, providing durability and protection against the elements. Homeowners often choose asphalt shingles for their affordability, ease of installation, and variety of styles and colors.
Asphalt roof shingles offer many benefits, including cost-effectiveness, good weather resistance, and ease of replacement. However, they may not last as long as some other materials, which can be a concern for some. Overall, asphalt shingles are a popular choice for homeowners for good reason.
3-Tab Roof Shingles
3-tab shingles are a flat, uniform type of asphalt shingle with a clean, simple look. They’re budget-friendly and lightweight, but they’re also thinner and less durable than modern alternatives. While, they’re a solid budget-friendly choice for homeowners, many prefer architectural shingles for their enhanced performance and lifespan.
Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles, also known as dimensional shingles, feature a layered design that mimics natural wood or slate. They’re thicker, more durable, and offer better wind resistance than 3-tab shingles. While more expensive, they may be a better long-term investment for some homeowners, especially in Minnesota’s harsh winters. These are also more affordable than luxury shingles, which offer the same style at an even higher quality.
If asphalt shingles seem like the right choice for your property, contact Minnesota Exteriors for multifamily roofing services.
Luxury Roofing Shingles
Luxury shingles are premium asphalt shingles that replicate the appearance of roofing, like slate or cedar shake. Since they’re thicker and more durable, they’re designed for the best quality performance and curb appeal. Compared to 3-tab or architectural shingles, luxury shingles offer a longer lifespan, but they also come at a higher cost. These shingles are ideal for homeowners who want style and substance and are okay with a higher price tag.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is available in steel, aluminum, or even copper. These metal shingles and panels are highly durable and can resist fire, pests, and rot while reflecting sunlight to improve energy efficiency. In ideal conditions, a metal roof can last 40 to 70 years with minimal maintenance.
Metal roofs offer additional benefits that are especially useful for Minnesota residents, including snow-shedding capabilities and holding up well under harsh winter conditions. However, they can be more prone to denting from hail unless you use stone-coated steel. Metal roofing also tends to be noisier during storms and rain.
Stone Coated Steel Shingles
Stone-coated steel shingles combine the strength of metal with the aesthetic of traditional shingles. Their textured coatings reduce glare and mimic the appearance of clay, slate, or asphalt. These shingles are more durable than plain metal and less prone to denting but, they still carry a higher price tag.
Standing Seam Roofing
While not technically shingles, standing seam panels are another standard option for metal roofing. These vertical metal panels have raised seams for a clean, modern appearance. They’re excellent for snow and ice runoff, making them a good option for Minnesota winters. However, they’re more prone to denting and noise.
Wood Roof Shingles
Wood shingles are often made from cedar or redwood and can bring a natural, rustic charm to your home. For homeowners who value craftsmanship and traditional style, wood shingles or their counterpart, wood shakes, can be a beautiful roofing option. Wood roofing offers natural insulation and can last a long time with proper maintenance.
Although, wood roofing is not always the most practical option for climates with frequent snow, rain or humidity. This can lead to mold, rot, and warping over time. Without proper upkeep, they may not last as long as synthetic or asphalt alternatives. Regular maintenance is necessary for this roofing option.
Wood Shakes
Even though they’re made from the same material, wood shakes and wood shingles carry a few key differences. Wood shakes are hand-split for a more rugged, textured appearance than standard wood shingles. They offer a more traditional, rustic feel and are thicker, which improves durability slightly. However, like all wood roofing, they need frequent upkeep and are not widely recommended for humid or snowy climate areas.
Tile Roofing
Tile roofing stands out for it’s striking appearance and longevity. Typically made from clay or concrete, they’re more commonly seen in warmer regions, as tile roofing isn’t ideal for all homes. These shingles are heavy, which means your roof structure must be reinforced to support them. In addition, freeze-thaw cycles that occur in the Midwest can cause cracking or breakage, especially with traditional clay tiles. Concrete tiles offer a bit more durability but still carry the same weight and installation challenges.
While tile may not be the most popular choice for a Minnesota climate, it remains a high-end option for those prioritizing curb appeal or living in warmer regions.
Clay Tile Shingles
Clay tile shingles are molded from natural clay and kiln-fired for a classic terracotta look. They offer great durability, fire resistance, and work well in hot, dry climates. In places like Minnesota, where snow and ice are common, clay tiles are more prone to cracking and damage, making them a less practical choice compared to other shingle types. Compared to slate tiles, clay is lighter but still requires a sturdy roofing structure.
Slate Tile Shingles
Slate shingles are cut from natural stone and offer homeowners elegance and longevity. Unlike clay or asphalt shingles, slate is extremely heavy and requires a reinforced roof structure to support it. However, their weight and cost make them more suited for luxury builds with reinforced structures and less practical for standard residential properties.
How to Choose the Best Type of Shingles for Your Roof
Deciding what type of shingle is best for your home comes down to a few key factors: your budget, your home’s design, and the performance you need from your roof. Asphalt is a dependable, cost-effective option, while materials like metal, wood, or tile can offer added character and longevity at a higher price. As you decide, keep these considerations in mind:
- Weather resistance – Choose a material that performs well in your local climate.
- Visual style – Consider how the shingles will complement your home’s exterior.
- Cost vs. lifespan – Weigh upfront cost against how long the roof will last.
- Ongoing care – Think about how much maintenance you’re willing to take on.
Need help narrowing it down? Read our guide on which roofing shingles are right for you.
Find the Best Roof Shingles for Your Home at Minnesota Exterior’s Showroom
Choosing the right shingles is a big decision, but you don’t have to make it alone. Minnesota Exteriors offers a selection of high-quality shingles from trusted manufacturers and expert guidance to help you make the right choice for your home.
Visit our home remodel showroom to see material samples in person and get professional input from our team. Already have a shingle in mind? Let’s get your roof replacement started—visit our residential roofing services page to schedule an estimate today.